Electronic sources, including the internet, are the leading sources of information in the present world. Most of the universities have embraced the changes by creating online libraries, where students can access information anywhere, anytime. In addition, there are educational and academic sites where students can access information. However, the ease of accessing information varies among internet user

In order to look for information about the genetic defect as per the patient’s request,the sources of that subject. Alternatively, I may decide to use google scholar, a free site that provides academic sources. Since I want to find academic related, verified information, I may choose to use scholar and academic search engines. Henry (2010) recommends the use of specific sites for specific information. Therefore, the first step is determining some of the best sites that I will get the most appropriate information.

Tsai & Tsai, 2003). In this case, the keyword “genetic defect” is very appropriate. Since I need more information about the subject, I will develop more search words. In this case, I will consider the synonyms and alternative words. For example, I can use genetic diseases, congenital defects, genetic shortcomings, rare genetic defects, and genetic deficiencies. I can also consider the symptoms that the patient is presenting, in order to match with the information I get from the search with them.

Since google is not the only existing search engine in the web (Shaw, 2007), I may consider other search engines if I am not satisfied with the information I get from google. For example, I can use Yahoo or Bing. If this does not satisfy my search, I can use the advanced search mode. This will enable me to narrow down my search to get the finest details about the subject. The other strategy I will use is the Metasearch engines. This will enable me query many search engines at once. It will give me all the results of the subject from a variety of search engines. An advantage with some of the Metasearch engines is their ability to eliminate duplicated results, rank them, and present them in the order of relevancy to the subject (Henry, 2005). This will speed up my search and give me the most appropriate results. Further, I can use web directories such as the Digital Librarian (Shaw, 2007), which will lead me to finer information on the subject. Another strategy I would apply is the use of the Deep Web. It provides a multiple of sources compared with the visible web (Tsai & Tsai, 2003). It will lead me to a variety of sources, which are also be updated. The last option is to use social media. I may not use these sites for academic assignments, but I may use it for general information. Examples are blogs and Myspace.

In conclusion, searching for information on the internet requires some skills. This ensures efficiency, and access to updated, appropriate information. One needs to select keywords, choose the appropriate sites, use Metasearch engines, web directories and social media. A good combination of strategies leads to efficient results.

References

Henry, L. A. (2005). Information search strategies on the internet: A critical component of new literacies. Webology, 2(1). Retrieved from http://www.webology.org/2005/v2n1/a9.html

Tsai, M. J., & Tsai, C. C. (2003). Information searching strategies in web-based science learning: The role of internet self-efficacy. Innovations in Education and Teaching International, 40(1), 43-50.

Shaw, M. (2007). Mastering online research: A comprehensive guide and efficient search strategies. New York, NY: Writers Digest Books.